If you're thinking about buying a high-end smartphone for yourself or a loved one this Yuletide Season, I'd advise you to take a look at the new iPhone or some other Android flagship apart from the Samsung Galaxy Note7.

If you're a big Samsung fan, however, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge - which has our TechPinas Badge of Excellence - is what I recommend. Or you might want to hold out your purchase and wait for the Samsung Galaxy S8, which is arriving in Q1 2017.

The Korean Giant has altogether prompted its global distribution partners or dealers to halt sales of the Samsung Galaxy Note7, which suffered an unfortunate fate after several units around the world exploded due to faulty battery. This decision came after a number of replacement units likewise caught fire despite already being marked 'safe'.

According to the company, "We are working with relevant regulatory bodies to investigate the recently reported cases involving the Galaxy Note7. Because consumers’ safety remains our top priority, Samsung will ask all carrier and retail partners globally to stop sales and exchanges of the Galaxy Note7 while the investigation is taking place." (source)

"We remain committed to working diligently with appropriate regulatory authorities to take all necessary steps to resolve the situation. Consumers with either an original Galaxy Note7 or replacement Galaxy Note7 device should power down and stop using the device and take advantage of the remedies available," they added.

On October 9, 2016, a 'safe' Samsung Galaxy Note7 exploded in the hands of a 13-year-old girl in Minnesota causing minor injuries to her thumb. (source) And on September 27, 2016, a replacement Note7 blew up in China damaging the owner's Macbook Pro and burning two of his fingers. (source)